American Pie Star Says He Was Paid Tiny Sum For Starring Role

Every actor hopes to land their big break eventually, but that starring role might not come with the riches that filmgoers expect. In a recent interview (via Deadline), actor Seann William Scott said that he was paid $8,000 for his starring role in the hit comedy American Pie, explaining that it “was a lot of money for me at the time.”

Scott said that he spent roughly $5000 to $6000 on a used Ford Thunderbird, and that it made him feel like he made it. He then revealed that he ended up working at the LA Zoo as a “churro guy” to make ends meet following his purchases. Scott also had roles in notable films of the 2000s, including Dude Where’s My Car, Final Destination, and the Dukes of Hazzard. He has appeared in numerous American Pie sequels, including the most recent, 2012’s American Reunion. A fifth sequel to the franchise is reportedly in development.

Hollywood’s actors’ union SAG-AFTRA is currently on strike, along with the Writers Guild of America. The two organizations cite current labor conditions, economic fairness, low residuals, and the dangers of AI as key reasons for the strikes. The Writers Guild of America strike began on May 2, and the SAG-AFTRA strike began on July 14, and neither seem to show any sign of ending. This has led to major disruptions for both television and film production, including in-progress projects like Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 2, which writer Christopher McQuarrie recently described as “40% done.” This will likely lead to delays in major projects, if not outright cancellations.